Great clips, Alex. Thanks. Had not heard the Essen Festival recording before. That could very well be the best (favorite) Hawkins that I’ve ever heard. Talk about “attitude” in the playing!
Massey Hall:
What more could be said about one of the all time great Jazz recordings? Bird always sounds amazing; and here he sounds AMAZING! For me, it’s Dizzy that surprises. In his prime with fabulous chops. His playing got a little sloppy in later years. Mingus’ bass playing sometimes takes a back seat in some people’s minds to his writing and band leading. Check out the bass playing on that recording; especially the up tempo tunes. Like the song goes, its all about that bass. Love this record and great to hear Bird with decent audio; and yes, that’s Bird talking.
Massey Hall:
What more could be said about one of the all time great Jazz recordings? Bird always sounds amazing; and here he sounds AMAZING! For me, it’s Dizzy that surprises. In his prime with fabulous chops. His playing got a little sloppy in later years. Mingus’ bass playing sometimes takes a back seat in some people’s minds to his writing and band leading. Check out the bass playing on that recording; especially the up tempo tunes. Like the song goes, its all about that bass. Love this record and great to hear Bird with decent audio; and yes, that’s Bird talking.